Criminal defence lawyers in Newcastle
Facing a criminal charge is one of the most stressful experiences a person can encounter. Julia Clarke Solicitor provides experienced criminal defence representation for clients across Newcastle, appearing regularly in the Newcastle Local Court and Newcastle District Court. We bring over 35 years of experience in criminal law to every matter and work hard to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Matters we handle in Newcastle courts
- Traffic offences — drink driving (PCA offences), drug driving, negligent driving, reckless driving, speeding, licence disqualification and appeals
- Assault charges — common assault, actual bodily harm, grievous bodily harm, domestic violence related offences
- Drug offences — possession, supply, and cultivation matters before the Newcastle Local Court and District Court
- Property offences — larceny, fraud, dishonesty offences, break and enter, receiving stolen goods
- Summary hearings — represented hearings and defended Local Court matters
- Bail applications — urgent bail applications in the Local Court and District Court
- Apprehended violence orders (AVOs) — defending AVO applications and advising on conditions and variations
Newcastle Local Court and District Court
The Newcastle Local Court hears summary offences and less serious indictable offences. The Newcastle District Court handles serious indictable matters including those committed for trial or sentence. We appear regularly in both courts and understand the local practitioners, judicial officers, and the efficient approach needed to achieve a good outcome in each jurisdiction.
Guilty pleas and sentence hearings
If you are considering pleading guilty, careful preparation of your plea in mitigation is essential to achieving the best sentencing outcome. We gather the appropriate subjective material, identify relevant guideline judgments, and present your case in the most favourable light. An early guilty plea attracts a discount on sentence and can in some cases avoid a conviction being recorded.
Defended hearings
Where you wish to contest a charge, we will review the brief of evidence, identify any legal or factual issues, and prepare a comprehensive defence. We can advise on whether there are grounds to challenge the admissibility of evidence, identification issues, or other matters that could result in an acquittal or a reduction in the seriousness of the charge.
Traffic law and licence matters
Drink driving is one of the most common matters we handle for Newcastle clients. A conviction can result in automatic disqualification, the interlock program, fines, and a criminal record. We can advise on the prospects of avoiding a conviction under section 10, obtaining a section 10 dismissal, and on the interlock order requirements. We also handle speeding matters, hoon offences, and applications to reinstate a cancelled licence.